The Altura Classic is a supremely packable and featherweight (115g) waterproof and windproof jacket with good breathability credentials. It also fits into its interior rear pocket, it’s just a pity this pocket isn’t on the outside, so you can access it while on the bike.
The Classic has a waterproof rating of 15,000mm, which is good for the price, and taped seams throughout. As a rain barrier, the Classic works well. Altura gives a breathability figure of 15,000g/m², which is impressive for a jacket of this price, but I did endure damp build-up inside the jacket once the pace picked up.
The lightweight nylon material has a papery, crinkly feel, and is noisy when you move. It feels delicate, but I had no durability issues during testing, and overall the build quality is good.
Altura describes the Classic as “semi-fitted”, but if you’re slim you’ll likely find the cut to be on the large side. It’s ideal for layering without feeling overly baggy. My issue was the sleeves – the length is fine, especially with the shaped cuff, but the width is bigger than most.
There’s a softshell stretch insert at the inner cuff but, even with this, the cuff circumference was too wide for this slim-wristed tester. As a consequence, the sleeves tended to ride up and the material flapped noisily.
Wearing thick winter gloves under the cuffs eliminated this issue, but you won’t be wanting to wear these all year-round. Likewise, the elastic hem might not be tight enough to hold the body in place for slimmer riders.
The Classic has a high cut front and dropped tail to help with road spray and there's an elasticated hem, but this wasn’t tight enough to hold it in place for me unfortunately. I’m sure bigger riders won’t have an issue.
A small-toothed, reverse-style zip with an inner flap does a good job of keeping both cold and wet out, and the tall collar has the obligatory zip guard, which all adds to comfort.
When it comes to safety the Classic really shines. Quite literally. The patterned grey finish with reflective detailing does a top job of keeping you seen in low light.
The Classic has many good features. It does a good job of keeping you dry, but can get a little damp inside when the intensity rises. In terms of safety, it’s one of more reflective jackets out there. The problem for this svelte tester was the oversized arms. If you’re larger this might not be an issue, making it a fair priced, lightweight and small packing jacket that does a good job of keeping the wet out.
Product
| Brand | altura |
| Price | 180.00 AUD,110.00 EUR,100.00 GBP,140.00 USD |
| Weight | 115.0000, GRAM () - |
Features
| br_gender | mens |
| Features | Sizes: S – XXL Colours: Black, Teal, Grey Waterproofing: 15,000mm Breathability: 15,000g/m²/24hr |
